Islam has given parents an honourable status. From a purely material viewpoint, we find ourselves indebted to our parents, particularly our mother. She loved us even before we were born as she not only nourished us in her womb, but went through pain and suffering. Our parents spent sleepless nights caring for us, provided for all our needs: physical, educational, psychological, and in many instances, religious, moral, and spiritual.

Our indebtedness to our parents is so immense that it is not possible to repay it fully. In light of this, it becomes obligatory for us to show the utmost kindness, respect, and obedience to our parents. The position and status of parents has been greatly emphasised in Islam. References to parents have been made at least 15 times in the Holy Quran. There are numerous traditions of the Holy Prophet (S.A.W) on this subject.

The Quran mentions: “And We emphatically enjoined upon man (to do good) to his parents-whose mother bore him (in her reproductive system) in pain after pain, and whose weaning also takes two years (and commanded him:) ‘Give thanks to Me and your parents. (You) shall return to Me alone.’” (Translation taken from Irfan Ul Quran, Surah Luqman 31, Ayah 14)

The Holy Prophet (S.A.W) said; “When an obedient caring son (or daughter) look towards his/her parents with kindness, Allah (S.W.T) grants him/her the reward of an accepted Hajj.” The Sahabah Iqraam (R.A) asked, “What happens if someone looks towards his parents 100 times a day?” The Prophet (S.A.W) replied, “Allah (S.W.T) is the greatest and Holy, He grants such a person rewards of 100 Hajj.”

Parents are a great blessing from Allah (S.W.T), gain as much rewards as you possibly can before it’s too late. If your parents are alive you should take care of their every need, not just financially but spend time with them. Keep them happy at all time. If your parents have passed away, you should pray for them. Look after their close relatives, such as your uncles, aunties, also respect and try to keep in touch with their close friends.

May Allah (S.W.T) give us the ability to look after our parents in the best possible manner, and to follow the true teachings of beloved Prophet (S.A.W).